International visitors add greatly to our nation's cultural,
education and economic life. We continue the proud tradition of
welcoming visitors to the United States, with secure borders and
open doors.
Many Canadian citizens and many citizens from Visa Waiver Program
countries can come to the U.S. without a visa if they meet certain
requirements. Starting October 26, 2005, visa waiver travelers from
ALL 27 Visa Waiver Program countries must present either a machine-readable
passport at the U.S. port of entry to enter the U.S. without a visa,
otherwise a U.S. visa is required. Learn more. Other foreign citizens
will need a nonimmigrant visa.
Nonimmigrant visas are for international travelers, (citizens of
other countries), coming to the U.S. temporarily. This visa allows
you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (airport, for example) and
request permission of the Department of Homeland Security immigration
inspector to enter the U.S. A visa does not guarantee entry into
the United States.
International travelers come to the U.S. for a wide variety of
reasons, including tourism, business, medical treatment and certain
types of temporary work. The type of visa needed is defined by immigration
law, and relates to the purpose of your travel. The Consular Officer
at your embassy or consulate will decide what kind of visa you need,
when you apply.
Advance planning can smooth the visa application process for you.
Apply for your Visa well in advance of your travel! Important steps
to remember:
1 - Review your visa status, and find out if you
need a U.S. visa or a renewal.
2 - Contact the Embassy Consular Section, to learn
about timeframes for visa interviews and other issues, such as how
to pay fees. Waiting time for an interview appointment is usually
a few weeks or less, but it can be considerably longer.
3 - Plan on an interview at the embassy or consulate,
necessary by most visa applicants. As part of the visa interview,
a quick fingerprint scan should be expected. Applicants who need
additional screening are informed during the application process.
See the links on the left for more information about visas required
for temporary visitors to the U.S. |
